Volume CXXXII, Number 1 September 13, 2002 f

Loving lobster
KERRY ELSON
STAFF WRITER

Non-Mainers will embrace Este's Lobster House on Bailey Island for the authentic Maine experience it brings to dining. The young Bulgarian couple who work behind the counter probably feel the working experience is not only specifically Maine-esque but also American. While diners are ordering the night's sustenance, they are also ordering a slice of Maine; each swallow of luscious lobster meat is a consumption of culture and environment.

Este's setting is appealing: the restaurant's wooden structure overlooks a lobster boat marina and stands beside a small, charming motel. The salty air crystallizes in nostrils as patrons walk from their parked cars to the front counter. Aquatic rescue equipment graces the outer walls of the house, just in case anyone drowns in glorious Maine smells and tastes.

Patrons order their food at the front counter. A petite Bulgarian student describes the offerings: lobster, haddock, steamed mussels, and other marine delicacies. Fish may be ordered broiled or fried. Side dishes include coleslaw, french fries, and corn on the cob. Este's also offers soft drinks and numerous beer selections. After placing their order, diners find a seat at one of the restaurant's many checker-topped tables.

Perhaps the most appealing aspect of the Este's dining experience is the amount of fine food patrons recieve for their money. Three medium-sized or two large lobsters cost just 20 dollars. This ferocious foodie kids the reader not. Could that possibly be the lowest fresh lobster price in New England? Or at least Maine?

Just because Este's patrons pay frugal prices doesn't mean, however, that they have to eat mangy lobster. This foodie's dining companions, one of which is a lobster fiend, had never before tasted such decadent lobster. The buttery tail meat dominated the plates upon which the heavy shellfish lay. Meat was everywhere; the white flesh could hardly be contained, and these diners devoured it with gusto. Thank goodness they were wearing bibs.
When this foodie's feast was finished, she carried herself to the car, took a breather and exclaimed "I shall never eat another lobster again! I shall not see another in my lifetime, I promise you that, co-diners!" And she hasn't since. But that doesn't mean that the consumption of the lobster wasn't an exquisite experience while it lasted.